2003 Audi RS6 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Audi RS6 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Audi RS6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi RS6 (444 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi RS6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi RS6 weights approximately 14 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi RS6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi RS6 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Audi RS6 (560 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Audi RS6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi RS6 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi RS6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi RS6 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RS6 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1896 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 70 L |
